The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if required.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.

It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.

After the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.

After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This can also help stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and aid in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory problems.

It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.

A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.

Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system once more.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.